Jubilee Party Deputy Leader Fred Matiang'i has demanded immediate investigations into allegations of bribery, intimidation, and violence that marred yesterday's by-elections across the country.
In a statement issued from his Nairobi office on Friday, November 28, 2025, Matiang'i called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and relevant investigative agencies to take swift action against perpetrators.
"The by-elections held on November 27, 2025, in various constituencies and wards were unfortunately characterised by incidents of voter bribery, intimidation, and outright violence, undermining the democratic process," Matiang'i said. "We urge the IEBC and agencies like the DCI to play their part and bring the perpetrators to book. Kenyans deserve elections free from fear and manipulation."
Matiang'i singled out reports of goons disrupting rallies, voters being ferried with inducements, and clashes at polling stations in areas like Malava and Banisa. He commended the security forces for their restraint but called for probes into specific incidents, including the attack on DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako in Kakamega.
Despite the irregularities, Matiang'i congratulated all opposition candidates who secured victories, particularly in Nyamira County where Jubilee and its allies swept all MCA seats. "We commend the resilience of our candidates and voters who braved threats to exercise their right," he said. "The clean sweep in Nyamira's wards by Jubilee is a testament to the people's desire for accountable leadership."
In Nyamira, Jubilee candidates won all six MCA seats in wards including Borabu, Masaba North, North Mugirango, West Mugirango, Borabu, and Kitutu Masaba. The victories followed the impeachment of Governor Amos Njaribo in October, with the party capitalising on local grievances over stalled projects.
Matiang'i also hailed wins in other regions, including Ugunja (Siaya) for ODM's Moses Omondi, Kasipul (Homa Bay) for ODM's Boyd Were, and Banisa (Mandera) for ODM's Ahmed Hassan.
"The opposition's performance across the country shows that Kenyans reject the status quo and demand change," Matiang'i said. "We will continue to hold the government accountable while building coalitions for the 2027 general election."
IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati, in a November 28 statement, acknowledged isolated incidents but insisted the polls were largely peaceful. "We received 247 reports of irregularities, but only 23 were substantiated," Chebukati said. "Our agents and monitors reported high voter turnout and smooth counting in most areas. We are investigating the verified cases and will take appropriate action."
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen dismissed the allegations as "post-defeat excuses." "The by-elections were free and fair, with 58 percent turnout across 1,127 stations," Murkomen said. "Those crying foul are the same who rejected IEBC reforms. Let the winners govern."
DCI Director Mohamed Amin confirmed probes into 15 incidents, including the Malava hotel attack. "We have identified suspects and will charge them under the Penal Code," Amin said.
The by-elections filled vacancies in six parliamentary seats and 21 wards, with over 520,000 voters participating.
Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni praised the Nyamira sweep. "Our candidates delivered on development promises, unlike the impeached governor," Kioni said.
Opposition leaders welcomed the results. ODM's Junet Mohamed: "Wins in Ugunja and Kasipul affirm Nyanza's loyalty to Azimio." DAP-K's Eugene Wamalwa: "Malava's victory despite violence shows people's resolve."
The results, certified by IEBC, see UDA winning three seats, ODM three, and Jubilee one parliamentary seat.
